As an outside observer, it stands out when a player who sees little action goes out and hits big shots and understands the team's system well enough to play on instinct. All of a sudden, a light seemed to go on for all of Cal State Bakersfield's inexperienced players. The Roadrunners are evolving into more than Dwuan Rice's savvy and Zeke Andrews' heart.
This new development is good news for next season, which won't include games against pushovers like San Francisco State.
Here are some things I've noticed from some of the players who don't play major minutes.
First of all, the Cory Brown looks better with each practice. Most people who read this will know him as the 6-foot-10 player in the black warm-up suit at games.
He can face the basket and play outside. He can shoot a little bit and he's been able to hold his own inside against Carl Damus and Rick Robinson. He could probably help the team this year, but with a full season of practice and weight training he'll be a valuable asset for the next four years.
Robert Rose doesn't even look like the same player who started the season with the 'Runners. He always had the physical attributes to be a good player, but the confidence was missing.
Brandon Robinson keep promising to deliver a memorable game. He's got one to his credit, and a pretty sweet dunk, which he delivered against San Francisco State Saturday.
I've been impressed with the level of teaching that goes on in practice. To have the message hit so many players all at once shows that the coaching staff's plan is working.
Coach Keith Brown said Trent Blakley paved the way for some of the younger players, giving them confidence by reaching the starting lineup.
In looking ahead to next year, it's important for Blakley to get this experience in the starting lineup. He's going to be a leader next year, and it's important for him to learn the process of preparing to be ready at the beginning of a game.
It will be interesting to see who Brown starts against Cal State L.A. Tuesday. I like the that the 'Runners can bring Randall Harding off the bench to provide leadership for the second unit. I wouldn't be surprised to see Blakley in the starting lineup again.